Ophthalmology Registrars (2026 RMO Training Year) at Te Whatu Ora - Health New Zealand Te Pae Hauora o Ruahine o Tararua MidCentral, Manawatu / Whanganui

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.

Start date: 2 February 2026

This position is part of RMO Annual Recruitment Cycle, current vacancies are advertised separately.

About the Role

MidCentral District provides an excellent grounding for Ophthalmology Registrars looking to grow and develop their skills. There are a range of clinics and elective surgeries that you will be able to participate in as well as trauma cases coming in through the Emergency Department.

The wider eye service includes three registrars (one RANZCO vocational trainee), ophthalmic clinic nurses (incl. extended practice roles), an orthoptist, ophthalmic technicians and visiting optometrists.  The service provides specialist outpatient and inpatient ophthalmology services and primary health care support. MidCentral provides a regional cancer treatment service to a wider catchment across the lower North Island.

Technologically the service is well resourced with OCT, Argon retinal laser, YAG laser, Selective Laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), cyclodiode laser, Centurion phacoemulsification and DORC posterior vitrectomy equipment and Pentacam.

Benefits

• An encouraging learning environment where you will continue to grow.
• A professional and supportive culture and team setting.
• Fulfilling and challenging work with great lifestyle options
• Tailored wellness programmes

About us

Palmerston North Regional Hospital is the premier healthcare institution in the MidCentral Region. With a dedicated Intensive Care Unit, Coronary Care Unit, and Regional Cancer Treatment Service, as well as one of the largest trauma centres nationwide, Palmerston North Hospital provides industry leading specialised care and emergency treatment to the MidCentral region.

As a teaching hospital affiliated with New Zealand medical schools, we unite exceptional healthcare practice with modern education and research. MidCentral is an excellent place to begin or continue your professional career in an engaging and supportive environment.

MidCentral region is ideally situated for all lifestyles – Striking scenery with multiple hiking & biking tracks with beaches, ski fields and wineries close by as well as excellent schools and tertiary institutions.  The perfect blend of rural and city living.

Visit our careers site here for more information about Palmerston North hospital

About you

Our ideal candidate will have:

• Registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand or be eligible for general or provisional general registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand.  You can check your eligibility for registration by visiting the Council's website at www.mcnz.org.nz.
• Completed PGY2 or equivalent.
• Keen interest in ophthalmology.

Working at Health New Zealand

Health New Zealand | The Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.  

In the interests of protecting our people and our patients, all appointments will be subject to:

• Occupational Health Assessment
• Some positions are defined as a Core Children's worker under the Children's Act and require full safety checks completed before employment commences. (Police Vetting)

How to apply

Click “APPLY NOW.” 

For further information about this role please reach out to:

Lindy Chivell - RMO Recruiter

Discover more hidden gems that Manawatū and Palmerston North have to offer here: Manawatū & Palmerston North - Visit | Live | Study | Business (manawatunz.co.nz).